How to Determine if It’s Time for an AC Repair or Replacement

When your air conditioner in Columbia stops working, it can be difficult to know if it’s time for an AC repair, or if a replacement would be a greater option for the future. The answer isn’t the same for every homeowner. For example, a system that has been taken care of could be a realistic candidate for an AC repair because it will probably have a longer lifetime than another system that hasn’t been maintained. Many other influences should be considered additionally to this. We’ve got some questions that can help lead you.

How old is your system and how often are you repairing it?

The age of your air conditioner is a huge factor in your choice to call for an AC repair or invest in a replacement. Aged systems usually don’t operate as efficiently as they did when they were new—and particularly not as effectively as a new, energy-efficient model. In reality, you could decrease your energy consumption by more than you thought possible if you exchange your aged system with a new, energy-efficient unit. In many circumstances, this savings will support investment in a replacement system.

So how old is “too old”? That can vary based on your specific equipment and how well it’s been cared for, but Energy Star proposes upgrading to an energy-efficient unit if your present-day central air conditioner is more than 10 years old.

Past your unit’s age, examine your AC repair history. If your system has broken down several times, it’s likely to fail again—this circumstance can end up costing you more money in the long run. When you consider possible rebates and increased efficiency, is a new system going to be more economical in the future?

Many professionals recommend following “The $5,000” rule. Multiply the age of your unit by the cost of the AC repair. If it’s more than $5,000, replace the system. If it’s less, go for the repair.

Here are some other questions you should consider:

Is your house cozy enough in the summer? If not, your system isn’t working properly.

Are your energy bills increasing without extra usage? This is a indication that your air conditioner is breaking down.

Is your system properly sized? If your system is too small for your home, it can’t run efficiently. Just the same, if you’ve recently worked to make your home more energy efficient, your system can in fact be larger than you need to cool a very efficient home.

If you’re not positive if you need an AC repair or if it’s time to get a replacement, Watts Electrical & Air Conditioning can help! Our experts can help you decide how much life is left in your system and what the top option for your home and budget will be. Call us at 601-272-8497 to setup an appointment for us to come out.

Lennox was founded to deliver some of the most dependable, reliable HVAC systems in the market while providing great service and quality for customers. Watts Electrical & Air Conditioning in Columbia is no different, with our constant devotion to your comfort and commitment to the community. We strive to be the best at what we do so you can always be comfortable, and know you can always depend on us. Give us a shout at 601-272-8497 or schedule an appointment with us so we can help you achieve total home comfort.